International Underwater Spearfishing Association
World Record  
20.7 kg. ,   45.6 lbs.
Bass, Striped (Freshwater, Landlocked)    Morone saxatilis
Record Category: Men Speargun

Diver: paul young
Date: 8/3/2016
Location: UNITED STATES


I found a new cove that looked promising. A perfectly placed tree on a weed line was calling my name as i drove by in the boat. I threw anchor in about 7ft of water and quickly made my way down to the tree. I breathed up and dropped down to around 10ft and i was greeted by a few nice 10-12lb striper. Out of the corner of my eye i saw a large bass fade off into the murk. I held my breath hoping for the fish to come back but no luck. I made 10 or so dives back behind the tree in hopes that the fish would come around again but it never did. I decided to make one last dive just above the tree to see if the fish was there. I did a good breath up and dove down. As i hit the bottom i was instantly entangled in weeds. I ripped my gun out of the grass and made my way toward the weed line. As soon as my head popped out of the grass a large bass made a pass at me. I took a shot as it faded into the gloom. I heard a snap and knew i had stoned it. I pulled the fish in with no fight and realized i had just shot a giant. The minute i pulled that fish into the boat i knew i had to get home and put it on the scale.

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